My name is Yenny Paola Contreras Pertuz, I’m 24 years old, and I am incredibly proud to represent Colombia at Miss Europe Continental 2025. I live in Medellín, known as the city of eternal spring a place full of color, warmth, and culture that reflects the joy of my country.
– Can you describe yourself in three words that best represent you?
I define myself as a passionate, dream-driven, and perseverant woman. Each of these words reflects the way I face life’s challenges and the strength with which I pursue my goals.
– You’re a very confident woman. Where does that inner strength come from?
My strength comes from my roots, my family, and the history of my Afro-Colombian community. Growing up surrounded by brave, hardworking, and resilient women taught me that true beauty lies in the strength of the soul. Every challenge I’ve overcome has strengthened my character and deepened my belief that dreams are achieved through determination and purpose.
– Nowadays, image is very important, especially on social media. What role does photography play in building your identity?
Photography is a form of self-expression and self-discovery for me. Through it, I can reflect my essence, my story, and the pride I feel in my Afro-Colombian roots. Every image tells a story — the story of a woman who represents not only beauty, but also culture, identity, and purpose. Photography allows me to show the world that true beauty comes from self-love, authenticity, and connection to who we are.
– Who is your greatest inspiration in life?
My greatest inspiration is Rosa Parks. From the moment I learned her story, I’ve admired her bravery, strength, and courage to say “no” in the face of injustice. She taught me to stand firm in my values and to lead with pride in my Black identity. Thanks to her legacy, I understand that one voice, when raised with conviction, can change the world.
– How would you like to use your visibility to inspire or help others?
I want to use this platform to keep supporting my foundation, “Pequeños con Alma Real” (Little Ones with Real Soul), which provides educational assistance to underprivileged children and youth. Also, through my company — which generates over 300 jobs for single mothers — I want to continue proving that purpose-driven leadership transforms lives. My mission is to inspire other women to believe in themselves and to turn their dreams into real opportunities.
– What advice would you give to a girl who wants to feel more confident about her body and image?
I would tell her that confidence doesn’t come from a mirror, but from self-love. Every woman is unique, and her beauty lies in her story, in what she has overcome, and in the way she looks at herself with respect and love. When we learn to value who we are, confidence shows in every step and every smile.
– If you had the opportunity to lead a social project, what cause would you choose and why?
I would continue working for education and inclusion. I deeply believe that education is the most powerful tool to change the world. Through my foundation, I want to keep creating opportunities so that children and youth can dream without limits and build a future full of possibilities.
– You’ve already participated in beauty pageants, what has that world taught you about yourself?
I’ve had the chance to participate in five beauty pageants, and each one has been a unique experience that helped me grow personally and professionally. This world has taught me that a crown does not define a woman’s worth — her purpose does. It has shown me the importance of discipline, consistency, and humility. Through these platforms, I’ve learned that a true queen is someone who inspires, who helps others, and who represents her country and her people with love and authenticity.
– What does it mean to you to represent Colombia in an international competition like Miss Europe Continental?
Representing Colombia is a huge honor. It means carrying with me the joy, strength, and diversity of a country full of colors, cultures, and warm hearts. I want to show the world the greatness of my people, the richness of our Afro-Colombian heritage, and the power of Colombian women who lead with passion and hope.
– What do you hope the European audience will learn or feel about your country through you?
I hope they see Colombia as a vibrant, resilient country full of talent. That they understand we are a nation that smiles despite adversity, that loves its culture, and is ready to conquer the world with authenticity and joy. I want Italy to remember Colombia through a woman who came not only to compete, but to inspire and educate.
– Do you have a dream that you haven’t fulfilled yet?
Yes, my biggest dream is to help build a better world through education and equity. I know this dream is never-ending, because each day brings a new opportunity to help, to inspire, and to transform. As long as there are hearts to shape, dreams to support, and lives to impact my mission will continue.
FOLLOW HER ON INSTAGRAM: www.instagram.com/pertuzyen
